Lecture Notes: Sephiroth (Final Fantasy)

Overview

• Character Name: Sephiroth
• Aliases: One-Winged Angel, The Nightmare, The Man in the Black Cape, Bizarro Sephiroth, Safer Sephiroth, Seraph Sephiroth, The Chosen One, Angel of Death
• Origin: Final Fantasy VII
• Occupation: Formerly a member of SOLDIER, now Chosen One of Jenova

Powers and Abilities

• Base Abilities: Superhuman physical prowess, genius intellect, supernatural willpower, master combatant
• Magical Skills: Dark magic, telekinesis, mind manipulation, time manipulation
• Physical Abilities: Flight, possession, transformation, telepathy, teleportation, shapeshifting
• Combat Skills: Military training, swordsmanship, illusion casting
• Immortality and Magic: Elemental and matter manipulation, regeneration, energy projection
• Unique Abilities: Supernova summoning, pocket reality manipulation, status effect inducement

Goals

• Reach the Promised Land
• Avenge Jenova (failed)
• Kill Aerith
• Summon Meteor and destroy the planet
• Merge with the lifestream and become a god
• Conquer the universe
• Kill Cloud Strife (failed)

Crimes

• Mass murder, attempted omnicide, universal domination
• Terrorism, torture, treason, assault, animal cruelty
• Psychological abuse, mass property damage, brainwashing

Personality

• Callous, devoted to godhood, indifferent to mass casualties
• Initially professional, composed, and introverted
• Maintained friendships with Genesis and Angeal
• Known for bravery and loyalty before betrayal and fall into insanity

Relationships

• Cloud Strife: Arch-enemy; initially admired by Cloud
• Tifa Lockhart: Opposes Sephiroth for personal loss
• AVALANCHE: Opposes him due to his actions against humanity
• Genesis and Angeal: Former close friends, catalyzed Sephiroth's fall
• Zack Fair: Former ally, their bond dissolved after Sephiroth's insanity
• Hojo: Sephiroth's father, whom he despises

Etymology and Symbolism

• Named after Kabbalah's "Sephirot" reflecting his god-like aspirations
• "Safer Sephiroth" linked to Hebrew "sefer" meaning "book"
• Single black wing symbolizes fallen angel status, akin to Lucifer

Trivia

• One of the most iconic video game villains
• Frequently appears in various Final Fantasy spin-offs
• Known for complex character development and tragic backstory

Quotes

• "I will... never be a memory..." (Final words in Advent Children)
• Expresses disdain for weakness and determination to dominate

Theme

• One-Winged Angel: Signature theme used in various media

Conclusion

Sephiroth remains a complex figure within the Final Fantasy series, embodying both ultimate villainy and a tragic fall from grace. His drive for power, deep-seated psychological issues, and imposing abilities make him a formidable character, both feared and revered within the lore of the franchise.